Join me for this 10 mile hike, which will ascend to the ridge by way of the Avalon and A-Z Trails...steeply in some sections.  From the top there is a short spur trail to Mt. Tom (4051').  We'll then continue on to Mt. Field (4340') and Mt. Willey (4285').  Both are tree covered, but there are some very nice outlooks into Bretton Woods, Crawford Notch and into the Pemigewasset Wilderness.  NOTE:  The section between Field and Willey is steep, possibly requiring additional traction.  We'll backtrack over Mt. Field on the return and descend via Mt. Avalon, which affords spectacular views to the north and east.  Total distance for the hike is 10.0 miles with an accumulative elevation gain of approximately 4128'.  Plan to meet at the Avalon Trailhead near the Crawford Notch Train Depot at 8:30AM.  We should be finished by 5:00PM.

What to wear/bring:  Snowshoes are required and should be adequate for most of the hike.  Additional traction (microspikes, crampons, etc.) may be necessary on some of the steeper sections.  Wear warm clothing suitable for the exposed ledge(s) and summit(s)...no cotton or blue jeans.  You should also have insulated boots suitable for the season.  Additionally, consider bringing goggles, face protection and a headlamp/flashlight.  Bring along plenty of water (at least 2 liters), lunch, snacks and anything else you may require for a day hike.

Afterwards:  We will head over to Fabyans in Bretton Woods for drinks and dinner, if there is sufficient interest.

As you pass the exit for Lincoln, continue on I-93 N for 11.9 miles.  Take exit 35 to merge onto US-3 N/Daniel Webster Hwy toward Twin Mountain/Lancaster.  Follow US-3 N for 10.3 miles.  Turn right onto US-302 E/Dartmouth College Rd and follow US-302 E for 8.4 miles.  The Crawford Path parking will be on the left...taking a left for a short distance up the Mt. Clinton Road OR more preferrably there is parking along Rt 302 across from Saco Lake and just past the Highland Center.  Total distance from Lincoln is about 30.8 miles (about 35 minutes).  Look for a grey Hyundai Elantra.

NOTE:  Where ever you choose to park, you will need to head over to the Crawford Notch Train Depot to the southeast of the Highland Center...it is the yellow, orange and green Victorian-looking structure on the southside of Rt 302.  The trailhead is behind the station.